If you notice any symptoms, it’s important to consult with a specialist. Please fill out our form to schedule an appointment with the expert Dr. Desai. Early assessment can help manage symptoms effectively and prevent further complications.

As with a lot of sleep related conditions, there are multiple factors that can contribute and influence the increased risk of suffering from sleep bruxism, so it is challenging to identify a single cause for the problem. We can, however, understand that there are a particular number of causes associated with the greater probability of one suffering from sleep bruxism, therefore treatment can be provided to help.

• Stress & Anxiety – The grinding of teeth has long been held as one physical root cause of stress and anxiety. Researchers have stated that those who grind their teeth tend to report more symptoms of anxiety and depression than those not suffering with bruxism.
• Change of Sleep Patterns – Evidence suggests that episodes of teeth grinding and clenching can be connected to a change of sleep pattern.
• Genetic & Life Factors – A number of other factors have been identified to have been associated with sleep bruxism such as:

– Cigarette smoking
– Alcohol consumption
– Caffeine intake
– Depression
– Snoring

Depending on the severity of the case and how much it may affect the teeth, different treatments will be suggested:

• Relaxation: For some people, learning relaxation techniques and changing daily habits is enough. Massaging the face, head and neck in particular can help to relax the muscles.
• Occlusal/discharge splint: This is a resin or plastic dental protector that is used in severe cases. It treats the symptoms but not the cause in order to prevent tooth damage. It stops jaw, head, and ear pain from when it is used. The patient can wear it during the day, at night, or both, depending on the intensity of the bruxism and what the specialist recommends. It should be noted that occlusal splints do not get rid of bruxism.
• Night guard: A custom made Night Guard may be recommended in order to help prevent the symptoms of bruxism and the long-term problems associated with it.

As well as treatments, advice is often given, including:

• apply ice or damp heat to jaw muscles.
• avoid hard foods such as nuts.
• avoid chewing gum.
• drink plenty of water.
• get about 6-8 hours of sleep a day
• try to find ways to reduce sources of daily stress.

Yes, children can experience sleep bruxism. Factors such as stress, dental alignment, and growth spurts can contribute to bruxism in children.

While it may not be entirely preventable, reducing stress, maintaining good sleep hygiene, and avoiding stimulants such as caffeine and alcohol before bed can help decrease the likelihood of grinding teeth during sleep.